Tensions are growing around the world, the minister warns, first of all — in Ukraine, Syria and on the Korean Peninsula

Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu

MOSCOW, May 24. /TASS/. Ukraine, Syria and the Korean Peninsula are strategically important regions for Russia, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu said at the upper house of parliament, the Federation Council, on Wednesday.

"Close cooperation of the Defense Ministry with relevant committees of the Federation Council contributes to swiftly solving sensitive issues in defense sector and increasing the quality of the army and the Fleet. This is especially important today when tensions are growing around the world, first of all in such strategically important regions for Russia as Ukraine, Syria and the Korean Peninsula," he said.

The US drive for global leadership remains a factor of international instability, Shoigu said. Besides, Washington and Western countries continue imposing on the international community an idea of alleged Russian military threat. "This negatively affects the formation of joint front of fight against key evil of modern times - international terrorism," the minister stressed.

The minister called to continue enhancing the Armed Forces to enable them to counter any threats and challenges and efficiently defend national interests.